Uganda’s Army Chief Gives US Ambassador Ultimatum Over "Undiplomatic Behaviour"
In a dramatic turn of events, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the chief of defence forces in Uganda, has given the US Ambassador, William Popp, a three-day ultimatum to apologize to President Museveni, also known as "Mzee", personally or leave the country. The ultimatum was issued in a series of posts on social media, in which Gen Muhoozi accused Ambassador Popp of engaging in "undiplomatic behaviour" in Uganda.
According to Gen Muhoozi, the US Ambassador’s actions have undermined President Museveni and the country, and he has given him until 9am on Monday to apologize. The exact nature of the Ambassador’s alleged misbehaviour remains unclear, but Gen Muhoozi has stated that Uganda has no problem with the US, a country it "loves and admires". However, he has also claimed that there is evidence of the US working against the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, which has been in power since 1986.
The ultimatum comes as Uganda prepares for the 2026 elections, in which President Museveni is seeking a seventh term in office. Gen Muhoozi’s reference to the NRM party suggests that his anger stems from something involving the elections. The First Son had previously warned that Uganda was on the verge of a serious confrontation with the US Ambassador due to disrespect towards President Museveni and disregard for Uganda’s constitution.
The US has imposed sanctions on several high-ranking Ugandan officials for alleged human rights violations, including torture. The sanctions have strained relations between Uganda and the US, and Gen Muhoozi’s warning may be a response to this tension. The US Embassy in Kampala has not responded to Gen Muhoozi’s declaration.
The situation remains unclear, but it is evident that the relationship between Uganda and the US is under strain. As the world watches, it remains to be seen whether Ambassador Popp will comply with Gen Muhoozi’s ultimatum or whether the situation will escalate further.
